Some embodiments provide methods and systems of monitoring trash cans. A central computer system of a shopping facility identifies a first motorized transport unit and a second motorized transport unit; communicates routing instructions based on a mapping of the shopping facility to each of the first and second motorized transport units directing the first and second motorized transport units to a trash can receptacle, wherein the second motorized transport unit transports a replacement second trash can; communicates trash can removal instruction to the first motorized transport unit to cause the first motorized transport unit to remove the first trash can from the trash can receptacle; and communicates a trash can replacement instruction to the second motorized transport unit to cause the second motorized transport unit to place the second trash can into the trash can receptacle in place of the first trash can.
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1. A system of monitoring trash cans, comprising: a central computer system of a shopping facility, comprising: a transceiver configured to receive communications from multiple self-propelled motorized transport units located at the shopping facility; a control circuit coupled with the transceiver; and a memory coupled to the control circuit and storing computer instructions that when executed by the control circuit cause the control circuit to: identify a first motorized transport unit and a second motorized transport unit; communicate routing instructions based on a mapping of the shopping facility to each of the first and second motorized transport units directing the first and second motorized transport units to a trash can receptacle, of multiple trash can receptacles distributed about the shopping facility, identified as ready to be emptied, wherein the second motorized transport unit transports a replacement second trash can; communicate trash can removal instruction to the first motorized transport unit to cause the first motorized transport unit to remove a first trash can from the trash can receptacle; and communicate a trash can replacement instruction to the second motorized transport unit to cause the second motorized transport unit to place the second trash can into the trash can receptacle in place of the first trash can.
A system monitors and manages trash can receptacles in a shopping facility using self-propelled motorized transport units. The system includes a central computer system with a transceiver for communicating with multiple motorized transport units. The central computer system identifies specific units, such as a first unit tasked with removing a full trash can and a second unit carrying a replacement trash can. The system uses a facility map to direct both units to a trash can receptacle marked as ready for emptying. The first unit removes the full trash can, while the second unit places the replacement trash can into the receptacle. This automated process ensures efficient trash can management, reducing manual labor and improving cleanliness in the facility. The system optimizes routing and coordination between multiple motorized units to maintain operational efficiency. The central computer system dynamically tracks and assigns tasks to the units based on real-time data, ensuring timely trash can replacements. This approach enhances facility maintenance by automating the monitoring and servicing of trash receptacles.
2. The system of claim 1 , wherein the control circuit in communicating the trash can removal instruction is configured to: communicate routing instructions to cause the first motorized transport unit to travel under the trash can receptacle and the first trash can; and communicate a trash can engagement instruction that causes the first motorized transport unit to temporarily and removably couple with the first trash can, lift the first trash can at least a first threshold distance, and move the first trash can out and away from the trash can receptacle.
This invention relates to automated waste management systems, specifically for motorized transport units that retrieve and remove trash cans from designated receptacles. The system addresses the problem of manual trash collection, which is labor-intensive and inefficient. The invention includes a control circuit that communicates with a motorized transport unit to automate the retrieval and removal of trash cans. The control circuit sends routing instructions to guide the transport unit under a trash can receptacle and the trash can. It then issues a trash can engagement instruction, causing the transport unit to temporarily and removably couple with the trash can. The transport unit lifts the trash can at least a specified distance and moves it away from the receptacle, facilitating automated trash collection. The system ensures precise alignment and secure coupling to prevent accidents or spills during transport. This automation reduces labor costs and improves efficiency in waste management operations.
3. The system of claim 1 , wherein the control circuit in communicating the trash can replacement instruction is configured to: communicate routing instructions to cause the second motorized transport unit to align the second trash can horizontally in two dimensions with a door opening of the trash can receptacle, to align the second trash can vertically in a third dimension with guides of the trash can receptacle, and to move the second trash can into the trash can receptacle such that supports on the second trash can cooperate with the guides of the trash can receptacle; and communicate a trash can disengagement instruction that when implemented causes the second motorized transport unit to decouple from the second trash can.
This invention relates to automated trash can replacement systems for waste management. The system addresses the problem of manually replacing full trash cans with empty ones, which is labor-intensive and inefficient in environments like commercial or industrial facilities. The system includes a control circuit that manages the replacement process by coordinating motorized transport units to handle trash can exchange. The control circuit communicates routing instructions to a second motorized transport unit, directing it to align a replacement trash can horizontally in two dimensions with the door opening of a trash can receptacle. It also aligns the trash can vertically in a third dimension using guides on the receptacle. The transport unit then moves the trash can into the receptacle, ensuring supports on the trash can engage with the receptacle's guides for secure placement. After positioning, the control circuit sends a disengagement instruction, causing the transport unit to decouple from the trash can, completing the replacement process. This automation reduces manual labor and improves efficiency in waste management operations.
4. The system of claim 3 , wherein the control circuit in communicating the trash can disengagement instruction further causes the second motorized transport unit to lower at least a portion of the second motorized transport unit reducing a height of the second motorized transport unit, and to move out from under the trash can receptacle and the second trash can.
This invention relates to a motorized transport system for handling trash cans, particularly in automated waste collection. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently moving and emptying trash cans without manual intervention, improving sanitation and reducing labor costs. The system includes a first motorized transport unit configured to lift and transport a first trash can and a second motorized transport unit configured to lift and transport a second trash can. Each transport unit has a lifting mechanism to engage and disengage the trash can receptacles. A control circuit coordinates the operation of both transport units, including issuing instructions to disengage the trash cans after emptying. When the control circuit sends a trash can disengagement instruction, the second motorized transport unit lowers at least a portion of its structure to reduce its height, allowing it to move out from under the second trash can receptacle. This lowering mechanism ensures the transport unit can safely and efficiently retract without obstructing the trash can or interfering with subsequent operations. The system may be used in automated waste collection vehicles or stationary waste management facilities to streamline the handling of multiple trash cans.
5. The system of claim 1 , wherein the control circuit is further configured to: receive trash level sensor information, communicated from a transmitter at the trash can receptacle and coupled with a sensor positioned within the trash can receptacle, notifying the central computer system that a trash level within the first trash can is at or greater than a trash level threshold; identify that the first trash can is ready to be emptied in response to receiving the trash level sensor information indicating the trash level within the first trash can is at or greater than the trash level threshold; and implement the identification of the first and second motorized transport units to replace the first trash can with the second trash can.
A smart waste management system monitors and automates trash can replacement in public or commercial spaces. The system addresses inefficiencies in manual trash collection by using sensor-equipped trash cans and motorized transport units to automate the replacement process when trash levels reach a predefined threshold. Each trash can receptacle includes a sensor that detects fill levels and communicates this data wirelessly to a central computer system via a transmitter. When the sensor indicates that a trash can is full or near capacity, the system identifies the can as ready for replacement. The central computer system then coordinates the deployment of motorized transport units to swap the full trash can with an empty one, ensuring continuous waste management without manual intervention. This automation reduces labor costs, improves efficiency, and minimizes overflow risks. The system may also include multiple trash cans and transport units, allowing for scalable waste management in large or high-traffic areas. The integration of sensors, wireless communication, and automated transport units creates a self-sustaining waste collection process.
6. The system of claim 5 , wherein the control circuit is further configured to: identify the trash can receptacle from which the trash level sensor information is received; identify a location of the trash can receptacle; identify a location of the first motorized transport unit, and a location of the second motorized transport unit; determine the routing instructions for the first motorized transport unit based on the location of the trash can receptacle and the location of the first motorized transport unit; and determine the routing instructions for the second motorized transport unit based on the location of the trash can receptacle and the location of the second motorized transport unit.
The invention relates to a system for managing waste collection using motorized transport units and trash can receptacles equipped with sensors. The system addresses the problem of inefficient waste collection by automating the routing of transport units to receptacles based on real-time trash level data. The control circuit identifies the specific trash can receptacle from which sensor data is received, then determines its location. It also tracks the locations of at least two motorized transport units. Using this information, the control circuit calculates optimal routing instructions for each transport unit to minimize travel time and maximize collection efficiency. The routing instructions are tailored to each unit based on their respective locations relative to the identified trash can receptacle. This ensures that the transport units take the most direct and efficient paths to the receptacle, reducing operational costs and improving waste management logistics. The system enhances automation in waste collection by dynamically assigning tasks to available transport units based on proximity and current load status.
7. The system of claim 6 , wherein the control circuit, in determining the routing instructions for the second motorized transport unit, further identifies a location of the second trash can that is available to be used to replace another trash can; and determine the routing instructions for the second motorized transport unit to direct the second motorized transport unit to the location of the second trash can, and to retrieve the second trash can prior to traveling to the location of the trash can receptacle such that the second motorized transport unit retrieves and transports the second trash can to the location of the trash can receptacle.
This invention relates to automated waste management systems using motorized transport units. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently replacing full or malfunctioning trash cans in a facility by dynamically routing motorized transport units to retrieve available replacement trash cans before transporting them to designated trash can receptacles. The system includes a control circuit that monitors the status of trash cans and receptacles, identifies when a replacement is needed, and determines optimal routing instructions for the motorized transport units. The control circuit locates an available replacement trash can, calculates the most efficient path for the transport unit to retrieve it, and then directs the unit to the trash can receptacle. This ensures continuous waste collection without manual intervention, improving operational efficiency and reducing downtime. The system may also integrate with other motorized transport units and control mechanisms to coordinate multiple tasks, such as waste collection and trash can replacement, in a coordinated manner. The invention enhances automation in waste management by minimizing human involvement and optimizing resource utilization.
8. The system of claim 1 , wherein the control circuit is further configured to communicate a door activation instruction to a trash can receptacle control circuit to cause the trash can receptacle control circuit to activate a door control system to unlatch a door of the trash can receptacle prior to the first motorized transport unit attempting to move the first trash can.
This invention relates to automated waste management systems, specifically for controlling trash can receptacles in conjunction with motorized transport units. The problem addressed is the need for efficient and coordinated interaction between autonomous waste collection systems and stationary trash receptacles to facilitate seamless waste disposal. The system includes a control circuit that manages the operation of a motorized transport unit designed to move trash cans. The control circuit is configured to communicate with a trash can receptacle control circuit, which operates a door control system for the receptacle. Before the motorized transport unit attempts to move a trash can, the control circuit sends a door activation instruction to the receptacle control circuit. This instruction triggers the door control system to unlatch the receptacle's door, ensuring the trash can can be accessed or deposited without obstruction. The door control system may include mechanisms such as solenoids, motors, or other actuators to physically unlatch the door. The coordination between the transport unit and the receptacle ensures smooth and automated waste collection, reducing manual intervention and improving efficiency in waste management operations. The system may also include sensors or feedback mechanisms to confirm the door's status before proceeding with the transport operation.
9. A method of monitoring trash cans, comprising: by a control circuit of a shopping facility: identifying a first motorized transport unit and a second motorized transport unit of a plurality of self-propelled motorized transport units configured to travel about a shopping facility; communicating routing instructions based on a mapping of the shopping facility to each of the first and second motorized transport units directing the first and second motorized transport units to a trash can receptacle, of multiple trash can receptacles distributed about the shopping facility, identified as ready to be emptied, wherein the second motorized transport unit transports a replacement second trash can; communicating trash can removal instruction to the first motorized transport unit to cause the first motorized transport unit to remove a first trash can from the trash can receptacle; and communicating a trash can replacement instruction to the second motorized transport unit to cause the second motorized transport unit to place the second trash can into the trash can receptacle in place of the first trash can.
The invention relates to automated trash can monitoring and replacement systems in shopping facilities. The system addresses the inefficiency of manual trash can management by using self-propelled motorized transport units to autonomously identify, remove, and replace full trash cans. A control circuit within the shopping facility monitors multiple trash can receptacles distributed throughout the area. When a trash can is identified as ready for emptying, the control circuit selects two motorized transport units from a fleet. The first unit is directed to the receptacle to remove the full trash can, while the second unit, carrying a replacement trash can, is routed to the same location. The control circuit provides routing instructions based on a facility map, ensuring both units reach the designated receptacle. The first unit removes the full trash can, and the second unit places the replacement can in its place. This automated process improves operational efficiency by reducing manual labor and ensuring timely trash can maintenance. The system integrates mapping and routing capabilities to optimize the movement of transport units, minimizing disruptions to shoppers.
10. The method of claim 9 , wherein the communicating the trash can removal instruction comprises: communicating routing instructions to cause the first motorized transport unit to travel under the trash can receptacle and the first trash can; and communicating a trash can engagement instruction that causes the first motorized transport unit to temporarily and removably couple with the first trash can, lift the first trash can at least a first threshold distance, and move the first trash can out and away from the trash can receptacle.
This invention relates to automated trash can removal systems using motorized transport units. The problem addressed is the manual effort required to collect and transport trash cans, particularly in large facilities or outdoor areas where multiple trash cans need regular emptying. The invention provides a method for autonomously or semi-autonomously removing trash cans from their receptacles using motorized transport units. The method involves a motorized transport unit equipped with sensors and actuators to detect and engage a trash can. The unit first navigates to the trash can receptacle, aligning itself beneath the trash can. Routing instructions guide the unit to position itself correctly, ensuring precise alignment. Once aligned, the unit executes a trash can engagement instruction, which causes it to couple temporarily with the trash can. The coupling mechanism may involve mechanical, magnetic, or other means to securely but removably attach to the trash can. After coupling, the unit lifts the trash can at least a predefined threshold distance to clear the receptacle, then moves the trash can away from the receptacle for transport to a disposal or collection point. The system ensures efficient and automated trash can removal, reducing manual labor and improving operational efficiency in waste management.
11. The method of claim 9 , wherein the communicating the trash can replacement instruction comprises: communicating routing instructions to cause the second motorized transport unit to align the second trash can horizontally in two dimensions with a door opening of the trash can receptacle, to align the second trash can vertically in a third dimension with guides of the trash can receptacle, and to move the second trash can into the trash can receptacle such that supports on the second trash can cooperate with the guides of the trash can receptacle; and communicating a trash can disengagement instruction that when implemented causes the second motorized transport unit to decouple from the second trash can.
This invention relates to automated waste management systems, specifically methods for replacing trash cans in a receptacle using motorized transport units. The problem addressed is the need for precise alignment and secure placement of trash cans into receptacles, ensuring proper engagement with receptacle guides and supports while allowing the transport unit to disengage efficiently. The method involves a motorized transport unit handling a trash can and communicating with a trash can receptacle. The transport unit receives instructions to align the trash can horizontally in two dimensions with the receptacle's door opening and vertically in a third dimension with the receptacle's guides. The unit then moves the trash can into the receptacle, ensuring that supports on the trash can engage with the receptacle's guides. After placement, the transport unit receives a disengagement instruction to decouple from the trash can, completing the replacement process. This approach ensures accurate positioning and secure attachment of the trash can within the receptacle, facilitating automated waste collection and minimizing manual intervention. The system enhances efficiency in waste management by automating the alignment, insertion, and disengagement steps.
12. The method of claim 11 , wherein the communicating the trash can disengagement instruction further causes the second motorized transport unit to lower at least a portion of the second motorized transport unit reducing a height of the second motorized transport unit, and to move out from under the trash can receptacle and the second trash can.
This invention relates to a system for automated trash collection using motorized transport units. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently collecting trash from multiple receptacles in an automated manner, particularly in environments like urban areas or large facilities where manual collection is labor-intensive. The system includes at least two motorized transport units, each capable of moving independently to collect trash cans. Each transport unit has a lifting mechanism to engage and transport a trash can to a disposal location. The invention improves upon prior systems by enabling coordinated movement and disengagement of the transport units from the trash cans. When a transport unit reaches a designated disposal location, it communicates a disengagement instruction to a second transport unit. Upon receiving this instruction, the second transport unit lowers its height, reducing its overall height to facilitate movement. This lowering action allows the second transport unit to maneuver out from under the trash can receptacle and the trash can it is carrying, ensuring smooth disengagement without obstruction. The system ensures efficient trash collection by coordinating the movements of multiple transport units, reducing downtime and improving operational efficiency. The invention is particularly useful in automated waste management systems where precise control of transport units is required to handle multiple trash cans simultaneously.
13. The method of claim 9 , further comprising: receiving trash level sensor information, communicated from a transmitter at the trash can receptacle and coupled with a sensor positioned within the trash can receptacle, notifying a central computer system that a trash level within the first trash can is at or greater than a trash level threshold; identifying that the first trash can is ready to be emptied in response to receiving the trash level sensor information indicating the trash level within the first trash can is at or greater than the trash level threshold; and implementing the identification of the first and second motorized transport units to replace the first trash can with the second trash can.
A system monitors and manages trash can levels in a waste collection network. The system includes trash can receptacles equipped with sensors that detect trash levels and transmit this data to a central computer system. When a sensor indicates that a trash can's trash level has reached or exceeded a predefined threshold, the central computer system identifies the trash can as ready for emptying. The system then coordinates motorized transport units to replace the full trash can with an empty one. The motorized transport units are identified and deployed based on their availability and proximity to the trash can. This automated process ensures timely waste collection, reduces manual monitoring, and optimizes resource allocation in waste management operations. The system may also include additional features such as tracking transport unit locations, managing multiple trash cans, and adjusting collection schedules dynamically. The solution addresses inefficiencies in traditional waste collection by leveraging real-time sensor data and automated transport coordination.
14. The method of claim 9 , further comprising: identifying the trash can receptacle from which a trash level sensor information is received; identifying a location of the trash can receptacle; identifying a location of the first motorized transport unit, and a location of the second motorized transport unit; determining the routing instructions for the first motorized transport unit based on the location of the trash can receptacle and the location of the first motorized transport unit; and determining the routing instructions for the second motorized transport unit based on the location of the trash can receptacle and the location of the second motorized transport unit.
The invention relates to a system for managing waste collection using motorized transport units and trash can receptacles equipped with sensors. The problem addressed is the inefficient routing of autonomous waste collection vehicles, leading to delays and increased operational costs. The system includes multiple motorized transport units that autonomously navigate to trash can receptacles based on real-time sensor data indicating fill levels. Each trash can receptacle is identified, and its location is tracked. The locations of the motorized transport units are also monitored. Routing instructions are dynamically generated for each transport unit based on the proximity of the trash can receptacle to the unit's current location. This ensures optimal path planning, minimizing travel time and energy consumption. The system may also prioritize receptacles based on fill levels, directing the nearest available transport unit to the most critical locations first. The invention improves waste collection efficiency by reducing manual intervention and optimizing resource allocation.
15. The method of claim 14 , wherein the determining the routing instructions for the second motorized transport unit further comprises: identifying a location of the second trash can that is available to be used to replace another trash can; and determining the routing instructions for the second motorized transport unit to direct the second motorized transport unit to the location of the second trash can, and to retrieve the second trash can prior to traveling to the location of the trash can receptacle such that the second motorized transport unit retrieves and transports the second trash can to the location of the trash can receptacle.
This invention relates to automated waste management systems using motorized transport units to manage trash can placement and retrieval. The system addresses the challenge of efficiently replacing full or misplaced trash cans in public or commercial spaces by coordinating multiple motorized transport units. One transport unit is tasked with retrieving a full or misplaced trash can and transporting it to a designated receptacle. A second transport unit is directed to identify an available replacement trash can, retrieve it, and transport it to the location where the full or misplaced can was removed. The routing instructions for the second unit include determining the location of the available replacement can and directing the unit to retrieve it before proceeding to the location where the original can was taken. This ensures continuous availability of trash cans while minimizing manual intervention. The system optimizes routes to reduce travel time and improve efficiency in waste collection and replacement operations.
16. The method of claim 9 , further comprising: communicating a door activation instruction to a trash can receptacle control circuit to cause the trash can receptacle control circuit to activate a door control system to unlatch a door of the trash can receptacle prior to the first motorized transport unit attempting to move the first trash can.
This invention relates to automated waste management systems, specifically methods for coordinating the movement of motorized transport units with trash can receptacles to facilitate waste collection. The problem addressed is the need to efficiently and safely access trash cans for automated collection, particularly when the cans are equipped with latching mechanisms that prevent unauthorized access. The method involves a motorized transport unit, such as a robotic waste collection vehicle, that interacts with a trash can receptacle. The receptacle includes a door control system that latches and unlatches a door to control access to the trash can. Before the transport unit attempts to move the trash can, the system communicates a door activation instruction to a control circuit within the receptacle. This instruction triggers the door control system to unlatch the door, allowing the transport unit to access the trash can without obstruction. The method ensures that the door is properly opened before any movement occurs, preventing collisions or operational failures. The system may also include sensors or feedback mechanisms to confirm the door's status before proceeding with the collection process. This approach enhances automation efficiency and safety in waste management operations.
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March 2, 2017
November 26, 2019
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